Copy of Diction and Syntax

Comments (0)

Transcript of Copy of Diction and Syntax

Notes 1:Diction, Syntax, Tone Why? What? Syntax: the way words are arranged within sentences Diction: style of speaking or writing as dependent upon choice of words The choice of Diction and Syntax contributes to the TONE. Tone = Attitude the writer takes about a character or situation REMEMBER? Understanding TONE creates a deeper understanding of the story and characters, making the reading experience more enjoyable! SYNTAX! Analysis Question:

How does the diction of this piece impact the tone. - reflect the level of formality, and to shape the reader’s perceptions.

- compliment the topic (an article on computers is filled with specialized language), the purpose (convince, entertain, amuse), and the occasion (level of formality or informality).

- impart freshness and originality to writing – words are used in surprising or unusual ways

- evoke a specific effect that brings the reader into the scene. A coat isn’t torn; it is tattered. A door does not shut; it thuds. Writers use diction to: Types of Diction Slang Jargon Colloquial Expressions nonstandard, often regional, ways of using language appropriate to informal or conversational speech and writing. For example: "y'all" Dialect Concrete consists of specific words that describe physical qualities or conditions Abstract refers to language that denotes ideas, emotions, conditions, or concepts that are intangible implicit rather than explicit meaning of a word and consists of the suggestions, associations, and emotional overtones attached to a word Connotation Denotation exact, literal definition Readers must:- understand connotation (the figurative meaning suggested) and denotation (the literal meaning)- not skip words they do not know (This is like playing your iPod but not wearing your earbuds.) Let's try it! Mother to Son

Well, son, I'll tell you:Life for me ain't been no crystal stair.It's had tacks in it,And splinters,And boards torn up,And places with no carpet on the floor—Bare.But all the time I'se been a-climbin' on,And reachin' landin's,And turnin' corners,And sometimes goin' in the darkWhere there ain't been no light.So, boy, don't you turn back.Don't you set down on the steps.'Cause you finds it's kinder hard.Don't you fall now—For I'se still goin', honey,I'se still climbin',And life for me ain't been no crystal stair.